Washington Specific Financial Resources

The Washington State Department of Financial Institutions (DFI) has put together a clearinghouse of information related to finances during the COVID-19 outbreak. Need help with paying rent or making your mortgage payment? They also have information on where to go to help paying the utilities. If it involves money and you live in Washington, this is the place to start.

During times of crisis, bad actors come out to try to take advantage of those who are stressed, scared, and seeking safety. Please be careful and review these tips from DFI for avoiding scams:

• Your bank or credit union should not ask for you financial account details via email. If you receive an email, contact your bank or credit union with the contact information listed on their website.
• Don’t click on links from sources you don’t know. They could download viruses onto your computer or device.
• Watch for emails claiming to be from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or experts saying that have information about the virus. For the most up-to-date information about the Coronavirus, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO).
• Ignore online offers for vaccinations. There currently are no vaccines, pills, potions, lotions, lozenges or other prescription or over-the-counter products available to treat or cure Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) — online or in stores.
• Do your homework when it comes to donations, whether through charities or crowdfunding sites. Don’t let anyone rush you into making a donation. If someone wants donations in cash, by gift card, or by wiring money, don’t do it.​